Dunbia unlocks new global markets

Northern Ireland’s largest meat processor, Dunbia, delivered its first shipment of pork to India at the end of December.

The processor, based in Dungannon in Co Tyrone, has further orders lined up to the country.

“The shipment represents a significant opportunity for Dunbia and our pig farmers in one of the world’s largest and fastest growing economies,” said Jim Dobson, chief executive of Dunbia.

“The first container has been very well received by our Indian customers and we are currently consolidating further containers for shipment.”

Following on from this success in India, the company is now exploring opportunities for beef in Canada, as well as receiving provisional approval from Chinese authorities to supply pork.

“It’s all very positive news for the Northern Ireland agri-food industry and bodes very well for the future, but we cannot rest on our laurels,” continued Dobson. “We need to exploit every opportunity and seek further new markets such as the US, the Philippines and Australia.”

Dunbia already exports to around 20 countries and is looking to add to this portfolio in future. The company experienced sales of over £800 million in 2015 while increasing pre-tax profits by 40%.